In the world of CrossFit, where intensity and versatility reign supreme, the importance of hand protection cannot be overstated. CrossFit workouts encompass a wide range of exercises, from weightlifting to gymnastics, all of which heavily rely on the strength and stability of your hands and wrists. The repetitive gripping, swinging, and barbell work can lead to discomfort, calluses, and even more severe injuries if proper precautions are not taken.
Investing in high-quality CrossFit grips/gloves or hand protection is not merely a luxury but an absolute necessity. These specialized gear options provide a crucial barrier between your hands and the rough, abrasive surfaces you encounter during workouts. They offer protection against friction and prevent blisters, tears, and painful calluses that can hinder your performance and impede progress.
In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving into the best hand grips for CrossFit—from gloves to grips and all the hand protection you need. We’ll break down the must-know features like material, fit, durability, and that all-important grip strength. Whether you’re a seasoned CrossFitter or just getting your feet wet, this guide will help you find the perfect grips. So, keep reading and gear up for your next WOD!
What are CrossFit Grips?
CrossFit grips serve a vital function in the world of fitness, offering numerous benefits to athletes engaging in high-intensity CrossFit workouts. This specialized piece of gear has been designed to enhance grip strength, protect the hands, and prevent injuries commonly associated with intense functional training:
5 Benefits Of Wearing CrossFit Hand Grips
1. Protection Against Calluses & Blisters
CrossFit grips act as a barrier between your hands and the equipment, preventing the formation of painful calluses and blisters. By reducing friction and pressure, they promote hand health and allow for more comfortable workouts.
2. Enhanced Grip & Control During Workouts
With CrossFit grips, you can achieve a more secure grip on bars, rings, and other exercise equipment. This improved grip enhances your control and stability, enabling you to perform movements with confidence and efficiency.
3. Injury Prevention & Joint Stability
The use of CrossFit grips also contributes to injury prevention by providing additional support to your hands and wrists. They help stabilize the joints, reducing the risk of strains, sprains, and overuse injuries commonly associated with high-intensity CrossFit training.
4. Extended Training Sessions & Reduced Hand Fatigue
Grips reduce the amount of strain put on your wrists & forearms. By minimizing this fatigue, CrossFit grips enable you to extend your training sessions. They offer cushioning and shock absorption, reducing hand fatigue allows you to train for longer durations without compromising your performance.
5. Versatility
CrossFit grips are versatile and can be used for a wide range of exercises, including pull-ups, toes-to-bars, muscle-ups, and barbell lifts. They are suitable for both gym workouts and outdoor training, making them a versatile accessory for CrossFit enthusiasts.
Different Types Of CrossFit Hand Grips Available In The Market
There is an array of different hand grips/wraps/gloves available in the market. The most common “grips” are what we refer to below as “palm protectors”. These palm protectors come in 3 different forms – “2-finger holes”, “3-finger holes”, or “no fingers”. Keep scrolling down to learn more about the benefits associated with each option.
1. CrossFit “Grips” AKA Palm Protectors (Most Popular)
Palm protectors are the most popular form of hand protection for CrossFit enthusiasts and are specifically designed to shield the palms from abrasions, tears, and calluses that may occur during vigorous CrossFit training. Crafted with durable materials, these grips provide an extra layer of protection without compromising your grip strength. Palm protectors often feature a fingerless design, allowing for increased tactile sensitivity and dexterity.
Key Features
-
Tough and resilient materials for long-lasting durability
-
Strategic padding to absorb impact and reduce hand fatigue
-
Open-finger design for improved grip and natural hand movement
-
Secure closures to ensure a snug and adjustable fit
Should I buy 2-hole, 3-hole, or no-hole CrossFit hand grips?
Just like any purchase, this is going to be personal preference however our recommendation would be to go with a extra-large 3-hole grip. This will allow you to put your hands through the holes if preferred, or could also allow you to use them as a no-hole option:
-
2-hole CrossFit grips: these are reasonable however can be quite uncomfortable as they may not sit nicely across your entire hand
-
3-hole grips: typically allow better coverage of your hand and have an increased comfort level. They’re great for new CrossFit athletes who are trying to get the hand of grips.
-
No-hole grips: This option is becoming increasingly popular and is a great option for more advanced athletes. These grips are typically longer in nature and require less mucking around with in between reps. They may not be as comfortable as 2-hole or 3-hole grips, though.
2. Fingerless Gloves For CrossFit (Suitable for Beginners)
Fingerless gloves are a popular choice for CrossFit beginners seeking a balance between hand protection and maximum mobility. These gloves offer coverage for the palms and back of the hand while leaving the fingers exposed for improved tactile sensation and grip. Designed with reinforced areas, such as the palm and thumb, fingerless gloves provide optimal grip strength and abrasion resistance.
Fingerless gloves will protect beginners hands from ripping on the bar & barbells however they won’t allow you to complete more advanced movements like kipping pull-ups, toes to bar & muscle ups across a long duration of time.
Key Features
-
Enhanced grip through textured or silicone-padded palms
-
Breathable materials to prevent overheating and sweating
-
Flexible closures for a secure and personalized fit
-
Versatile usage for a wide range of CrossFit exercises
3. CrossFit Tape Grip (Strong, but impractical)
Tape grips, also known as gymnastic grips, involve using athletic tape to create a protective layer between the hands and equipment. This DIY approach allows for a highly customizable grip tailored to individual preferences. Tape grips offer a minimalistic design that provides sufficient protection while maintaining a natural feel during movements.
The only downside to tape grip is that it is not reusable. This means that CrossFit athletes have to re-apply this grip every time / day they need to do a workout. As such, it is not a very popular choice considering they may need to tape their hands every day, or even on multiple occasions daily.
Key Features
-
Customizable fit and thickness based on personal preference
-
Secure grip without sacrificing tactile feedback
-
Cost-effective alternative to pre-made grips
-
Allows for quick adjustments and replacements as needed
4. CrossFit Hand Wraps (Least Common Choice)
Whilst hand wraps are a suitable form of hand protection, they are rarely chosen by CrossFit enthusiasts. These flexible strips of fabric are designed to provide enhanced wrist support, stability, and protection during intense workouts. By securely wrapping around the wrists and hands, hand wraps offer a customizable level of tightness to suit individual needs.
Key Features
-
Adjustable compression for personalized support
-
Reinforced wrist stability for heavy lifts and dynamic movements
-
Breathable and moisture-wicking materials for comfort
-
Versatile usage for various workouts and exercises
Factors To Consider Before Buying CrossFit Hand Grips
1. Material & Durability
- Leather
When choosing CrossFit grips, consider the option of leather material. Leather grips are known for their exceptional durability, providing long-lasting performance even during intense workouts. They offer a reliable grip while protecting your hands from friction and abrasion.
- Synthetic Materials
Another viable choice for CrossFit grips is synthetic materials. These grips are often made from high-quality fabrics engineered to withstand rigorous use. Synthetic materials offer a balance between durability, flexibility, and comfort, making them suitable for various CrossFit exercises
- Neoprene
Neoprene grips are also gaining popularity due to their incredible cushioning properties and ability to absorb moisture. These grips provide a comfortable and secure fit, minimizing slippage during workouts. Neoprene is also known for its resistance to wear and tear, ensuring long-term usability.
2. Grip Design & Fit
Full Hand Coverage (3-hole grips)
Grips with full hand coverage provide comprehensive protection to your hands, reducing the risk of developing calluses, blisters, and other hand injuries. They offer a secure grip while allowing for natural finger movement and dexterity.
Partial Hand Coverage (2-hole grips)
If you prefer a balance between protection and tactile sensitivity, grips with partial finger coverage might be the right choice. These grips safeguard vulnerable areas while leaving unnecessary parts of the hand exposed for enhanced grip control and a better feel of the equipment.
Wrist Support
Consider grips that incorporate wrist support, especially if you engage in exercises that put significant stress on your wrists. Wrist-supported grips provide added stability, reducing the likelihood of sprains or strains during intense CrossFit workouts.
3. Sizing & Comfort
Proper Sizing Guidelines
Ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s sizing guidelines to find the ideal fit for your hands. Ill-fitting grips can limit your performance and compromise your comfort and safety during workouts. Measure your hand circumference and refer to the sizing chart provided to select the appropriate size.
Breathability & Moisture-Wicking Properties
Look for grips that offer breathability and moisture-wicking properties. CrossFit workouts can be intense and sweaty, and these features will help keep your hands dry, comfortable, and free from excessive moisture buildup.
4. Ease of Use & Maintenance
Quick-Fastening Systems
Consider grips with user-friendly and efficient fastening systems. Quick-adjust straps or hook-and-loop closures enable easy on and off, allowing you to swiftly transition between exercises without wasting valuable workout time.
Cleaning & Care Instructions
Prioritize grips that come with clear cleaning and care instructions. Regularly cleaning your grips will help maintain their hygiene and prolong their lifespan. Check if the grips are machine washable or if they require specific cleaning methods to ensure their longevity.
CrossFit Hand Grips For Beginners: Key Considerations
When starting your CrossFit journey, it’s essential to choose grips that support your beginner-level needs. Look for grips that prioritize comfort, ease of use, and provide adequate protection. Here are some key features to consider:
Padding & Protection
Opt for grips with ample padding to shield your hands from abrasions and blisters. Look for materials like neoprene or gel padding that offer a balance of cushioning and durability.
Simplified Design
Seek grips with a straightforward design that is easy to put on and take off. This ensures a hassle-free experience during your workouts, allowing you to focus on form and technique.
Adjustable Straps
Choose grips with adjustable straps that provide a secure fit. This allows you to customize the tightness to your preference and prevents slippage or discomfort.
CrossFit Hand Grips For Advanced Athletes: Key Considerations
As you progress in your CrossFit journey and tackle more challenging workouts, your grip needs may evolve. Consider the following features when selecting grips for intermediate to advanced levels:
Enhanced Grip Support
Look for grips with textured or silicone patterns on the palm area for superior grip traction. This feature becomes crucial when performing movements that require a strong hold, such as pull-ups or kettlebell swings.
Wrist Support
Advanced-level grips often incorporate additional wrist support, helping to stabilize your joints during heavy lifts or complex movements. Seek grips with adjustable wrist straps or integrated wrist wraps to minimize the risk of injuries.
Reinforced Durability
Rigorous training demands durable grips that can withstand repeated use and intense workouts. Consider options made from premium leather or reinforced synthetic materials to ensure longevity and reliability.
Best Hand Grips For CrossFit (Updated)
When it comes to selecting the best CrossFit grips, it’s important to consider grips from reputable brands that have a proven track record in the fitness industry. Additionally, customer reviews and ratings provide valuable insights into the performance and durability of the grips. Here are five top picks for CrossFit grips that combine quality, functionality, and customer satisfaction:
1. Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips
Embracing the spirit of innovation and functionality, Bear KompleX has established itself as a frontrunner in the fitness industry, and its 3-Hole Hand Grips exemplify its commitment to excellence. Constructed from a high-grade blend of synthetic materials, these grips feature a cleverly designed three-hole configuration that optimizes finger flexibility and ensures ample ventilation. As one of the best hand grips for CrossFit, they offer unbeatable durability and comfort, making them a top choice for athletes and our top pick for this article.
Brand: Bear KompleX
Material: Synthetic material blend
Key Features:
-
Three-hole design for maximum finger flexibility and ventilation
-
Velcro wrist strap for easy adjustment and secure fit
-
Reinforced stitching for added durability
Key Benefits:
-
Offers excellent palm protection and prevents tears during high-intensity workouts
-
Ideal for gymnastics, kettlebell swings, and Olympic weightlifting
-
Highly praised by users for its comfortable fit and long-lasting performance
2. WOD&DONE Customizable Hand Grips
WOD&DONE has revolutionized the CrossFit grip game with their innovative Customizable Hand Grips, making them a sought-after choice among fitness enthusiasts. These grips allow you to trim them to your preferred size, ensuring a perfect fit. Crafted from a high-quality synthetic material blend, they offer exceptional durability and flexibility.
Brand: WOD&DONE
Material: High-quality synthetic material blend
Key Features:
-
The customizable design allows trimming to preferred size for a perfect fit
-
Crafted from durable and flexible synthetic material blend
-
Textured surface enhances grip and prevents slippage
Key Benefits:
-
Exceptional hand protection and tear prevention during intense workouts
-
Versatile grips suitable for various CrossFit exercises and movements
-
Highly acclaimed by users for their customizable feature, reliable performance, and ability to protect against hand tears and abrasions
3. GymPaws Leather Weightlifting Grips
GymPaws Leather Weightlifting Grips bring a fresh approach to hand protection and grip support. Crafted from genuine leather, these compact and versatile grips sit perfectly in the palm of your hand. Their smart ergonomic design, complete with four finger loops, ensures a snug and comfortable fit, making them both practical and stylish for any workout. Recognized as one of the best hand grips for CrossFit, they provide the durability and performance you need to conquer even the toughest lifts with confidence.
Brand: GymPaws
Material: Genuine leather
Key Features:
-
Constructed from high-quality, genuine leather for superior durability and comfort
-
Compact and versatile design that fits snugly in the palm of your hand
-
Equipped with four finger loops for a secure and ergonomic fit during workouts
Key Benefits:
-
Provides exceptional palm protection, shielding against calluses and blisters
-
Improves grip and control, enabling athletes to lift heavier weights with confidence
-
Highly praised by customers for its reliable grip enhancement and long-lasting performance
4. JerkFit WODies Hand Grips
Enveloping the entire hand and incorporating strategically placed finger holes and integrated wrist support, they provide an unrivaled shield against the rigors of CrossFit exercises. The inclusion of a thumb hook further enhances positioning and grip, earning JerkFit WODies Hand Grips the trust of athletes who value reduced hand fatigue and amplified grip strength across a broad spectrum of movements.
Brand: JerkFit
Material: Neoprene and leather
Key Features:
-
Combined neoprene and leather construction for a balance of comfort and durability
-
Full hand coverage with finger holes and integrated wrist support
-
Thumb hook for secure positioning and improved grip
Key Benefits:
-
Provides superior hand protection for bar work, kettlebell exercises, and rope climbs
-
Designed to lessen hand fatigue and enhance grip strength
-
Highly recommended by athletes for its ergonomic design and versatility
5. Fit Active Fingerless Gloves
The fingerless design ensures maximum dexterity and allows for a natural grip. With an adjustable hook-and-loop closure, they offer a secure and customizable fit. Athletes praise this glove for their comfortable feel, versatility across various exercises, and reliable grip enhancement.
Brand: Fit Active
Material: Synthetic material blend
Key Features:
-
Crafted from a durable and flexible synthetic material blend
-
Built with a balance of convenience and functionality
-
Fingerless design for maximum dexterity and natural grip
Key Benefits:
-
Offers excellent palm protection during CrossFit workouts
-
Enhances grip strength and prevents slippage
-
Versatile across various exercises and movements
Tips For Cleaning & Maintaining Hand Grips
It’s important to note that your grips will start to feel better the more that you wear them. Don’t be alarmed if they feel slippery when you first buy them. Give them time to “mould” to your hands & the respective bars that you are using. Where possible, keep the surface of your grips as clean as possible – this will allow them to mould effetively:
Keep “Grip Surface” clean
CrossFit hand protection, including grips and gloves, can accumulate sweat, dirt, and bacteria during workouts. It is crucial to establish a regular cleaning routine to keep them hygienic and odor-free. In addition to this, it’s important to keep the “grip” surface as clean as possible – this will give your grips the best chance of forming an appropriate mould to the bar.
Hand Wash Only
For most hand protection items, hand washing is the recommended cleaning method. Gently scrub them with mild soap and lukewarm water, paying close attention to the areas that come into contact with sweat and dirt.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals, such as bleach or strong detergents, can damage the material and compromise the integrity of the hand protection. Stick to mild soap or specialized cleaners designed for sports equipment..
Avoid Direct Sunlight & Extreme Temperatures
Exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures can degrade the material of your hand protection. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent premature deterioration.
Proper Ventilation
Allow your hand protection to breathe by storing them in a well-ventilated area. This helps prevent the buildup of moisture and odors, keeping the gear fresh for your next workout.
Final Words
This ultimate guide is your go-to resource for everything about the best hand grips for CrossFit, gloves, and all kinds of hand protection. From breaking down the different types of grips available to helping you choose the perfect gear for your needs, you now have the know-how to make the right call.
With the right grips in hand, you can crush those tough WODs, push your limits, and hit new PRs with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned CrossFit athlete or just starting out, having reliable hand protection is key to unlocking your potential and reaching your goals.
So, grab the tips and insights from this guide, gear up with the best hand grips for CrossFit, and take on your fitness journey knowing your hands are protected every step of the way.